The Day After

Christmas is over. Our days of sleeping in on Christmas morning are quickly coming to an end. So we took advantage this year. We rolled out of bed at 8:30am, had cinnamon rolls for breakfast, got showered and dressed, opened presents, went to see Marley & Me, drove to Dave's sister's house, enjoyed a house full of family for a big feast (might I add delicious too), and headed home, took down all Christmas decorations, hauled the tree outside, got ready for bed and read my book until midnight because it is SO good! (I'm reading The Sound of Rain by Anita Stansfield.) All in all, it was a great Christmas.

I hope you all had a great Christmas too!

Jeanne Needs

I found this neat idea on Lene's blog. All you do is google your name with needs at the end and list the first 10 results.

1. Jeanne needs life in Cleaveland. -- I don't think I do.

2. Jeanne needs help. -- I do need a LOT of help! I'll take it from wherever (mostly) I can get it from.

3. Jeanne needs a job NOW! -- I only need a job if it pays double what I make now.

4. Jeanne needs A Shooter Live lyrics. -- Don't even know what that is.

5. Jeanne needs more cash. -- I couldn't agree more!

6-10. Jeanne needs A Shooter lyrics by Bruce Springsteen. -- Once again..never heard of it, maybe I should look it up.

(I decided to keep going since it was 10 pages of Jeanne needs A Shooter lyrics. How boring!)

7. Jeanne needs a ride from sf to bioneers solstice afterparty Sunday. --Sure, but first I need a ride to sf.

8. Jeanne needs to go! -- I'm always up for a roadtrip. Anyone headed to Idaho?

9. Jeanne needs a hug. -- Hugs always make me feel better.

10. Did I mention Jeanne really needs A Shooter lyrics?? -- Like, REALLY badly! Can somebody please help?

Holiday Baking

My good friend and I spent a whole day together shopping, baking, and choosing fabric to recover my chairs. It was so fun to spend a day away from Christian and get some holiday baking accomplished. (THANKS Dave!)

We went to the Outlet Mall in Castle Rock and got great deals at the Carter's outlet. I love a good 70% off sale. I think I might go back. I got 4 pairs of pants and a shirt for Christian for $30. Then we spent our life savings on groceries. And to the kitchen we went.

A sugar cookie with Andes mints inside and green frosting and an Andes mint on top. (seriously, that is all it is---super easy!!)

Butterscotch Cake Cookies with Browned Butter Frosting

Graham Cracker Cookies (the squares on top)

and Molasses Cookies (the rounds on bottom)

We had a great time talking and laughing and baking. And thanks to my friend's awesome kitchen with 2 ovens we were able to finish almost all that we set out to do. It would have taken me a week to accomplish all that baking by myself, with one oven and a toddler at my feet. We ended up with about 20 dozen cookies. Tonight I am going to make chocolate covered pretzel rods sprinkled with red and green sugar. I love to bake! I need to do it more than once a year.

SPT-Joy

I find joy in having our first Christmas tree as a family.

Unfortunately, there are no ornaments on the bottom half of the tree because Christian pulls them all off. But at least we have a tree! That's more than we can say for last year.

Christmas Party

Dave and I went to my work Christmas party last night and saw "A Christmas Carol" at the Denver Center for Performing Arts. Surprisingly I really enjoyed it. They did a fabulous job and Tiny Tim was SO cute. The actor that played Scrooge was excellent. I was entertained the whole night and thanks to our friend, Lindsey, we were able to have a night away from Christian.

After the play we decided to take a few pictures of the area and ourselves. It was so nice I didn't even need my coat. Can you believe it? A December night in Denver and all I needed was a sweater.

I can't wait for Christmas when we get our new camera and can take decent photos again. Sorry about the red eyes.

It's been a long time since I have been to Downtown Denver. The Parade of Lights was last night as well, so a few of the streets were closed and traffic was aweful! But it was manageable. This picture was taken at 10m after all the traffic was gone. The drive home was a breeze!

Dave was trying SO hard to take a good picture, but he forgot to smile with all that concentrating. I think he's the most handsome husband (even when he is so serious).

SPT-Love

Do I need to say any more? I work within walking distance of Sonic and it's a BAD thing. I purposely schedule my lunch at 2pm so I can go to Happy Hour for 1/2 price drinks. I know...it's a problem and I should seek help.

I figured you already knew I loved my family so why not share my love of Sonic?

Does anyone else have a Sonic problem?

Is there a Sonic Anonymous?

A Little Note: Okay...so I might have exaggerated a little bit. I LOVE Sonic with every fiber in my being, but I don't go everyday. In fact it's only about once or twice a week if that. But it seems that these past few weeks I'm getting out of control. I'm drinking less water and more soda. I never used to drink soda very much. I think the stress of the Holidays brings it out in me (keep in mind I'm a bank teller). And after all it's less than $1 per drink.

Depression

Depression is a funny thing. It varies from feeling a little blue to not being able to function in day-to-day activities. It can be triggered by traumatic events or just be a chemical imbalance. It can last for just a few hours to a lifetime. It’s different for every person. Some people believe you have complete control over depression. Others believe only medications can fix it.

I am thankful that I haven’t had the lifetime of depression that causes me to not want to face the world. I don’t have the voices telling me that I am such a disgrace to the world that it would be better off without me. But I have friends and family that aren’t so lucky. They battle with those voices. They face the ugly blackness of depression. They feel alone, even with close family and friends by their side. They feel ugly, dirty, unworthy, etc.

If I could go back to school I would study depression and the human brain. It fascinates me. I have spent many hours thinking about it, wanting to know what it is, why it happens, who is prone to it, how to fix it. I would love to be involved in scientific studies (as the scientist…not the patient). I want people to be happy. I want to help. I probably won’t ever make it back to school to get a formal education, and that is ok. Maybe I can still help…help people believe in themselves and the world around them. I hope I can.

SPT-Shadows

SPT-Busted

My Day Off

I sure do love my days off. This week I get an extra day...Happy Veteran's Day! We had so much fun sleeping in, going out for breakfast, going to grandma and grandpa's house for lunch, visiting a friend in the hospital, playing at the park and finally heading home. Phew! Christian doesn't know what to do with all these fun activities. I still need to go grocery shopping...or maybe I'll have the husband do that tomorrow on his day off. It's only 3:30pm but I'm pooped. I'm telling you what....staying home is SO much more work than my "job". Chasing a toddler around, making sure he doesn't break anything..including himself..getting all his meals in him (a lot harder than it seems), and protecting our poor dog's tail is a lot to accomplish all at once. Somehow I manage, and at the end of the day I am happier than one woman should be. Sure, I have my challenges, we all do. But I can't imagine my life any other way right now. I am so blessed!

P.S. I changed 5 poopy diapers today! gross

The Inevitable

My Nikon CoolPix 4300 4.1mp (blah blah blah) is on his death bed. He has lived a very good, long, and somewhat neglected until last August, life. We have kept him charged and ready to use at a moment's notice. However, at our recent trip to Boo at the Zoo Christian threw a tantrum and threw my camera across the sidewalk. My poor camera had sustained some minor head trauma, but with my quick reaction I was able to save it. The recent event was too much to live through. My camera is starting to regress, not able to remember all of it's functions. Slowly, it is shutting down. I will miss this camera. He has been a part of our lives for almost 6 years. He's been good to us. Unfortunately for him (but fortunately for us) we will need to upgrade to a new camera. A youger and slimmer model with more brains aka mega pixels. Our camera has taken thousands of great pictures and for that we will always remember him fondly. Goodbye mister Nikon CoolPix 4300.

My Very 1st SPT

I thought I would give SPT a try. Want to know what SPT is? Click Here.

Who Would've Thunk?

I realized over the weekend that I have changed A LOT in the past year. Before becoming a mother I would gag at the thought of anyone throwing up. Now I can witness the act and clean it up without thinking twice about it. Before, I would cringe at changing a poopy diaper. Now, I change several diapers a week and have even caught poop in my bare hands to eliminate cleaning the carpet. (maybe that was too much info?) Before, I laughed at the people that cried when their babies got shots...now, I'm the one crying. Before, I didn't understand the love a mother has for a child. Now, I can't believe it is possible to love someone so much. Before, I couldn't understand why anyone would take so many pictures of their baby that didn't even move yet. Now, I have almost 2000 pictures of my 14 month old child. I know..it's a problem. The list goes on and on. Being a mother has taught me a lot about myself (some things...not so good). But mostly it has taught me to be grateful. Being a mommy is great...and nobody told me how great a bear hug from your toddler is!

And YAY that my little sister has decided to serve a mission!! We're all so excited!

And I'm SO happy with my current job! SO happy!

New Beginnings

Now is a time for new beginnings. A time to start over and look forward to new and fresh things. Now is a time for happiness, even though the world is falling apart around you. Now is the time to live the life and be the person you dream to be. Now is the time to love with all of your heart. What better time than now?

Free Phone

So, I got a free phone on Saturday. It's a Blackberry Curve 8330. It's pretty fancy compared to the other phones I've had. I have no idea how to use it or why I felt the need to have it, but it was free so, why not? I am still trying to test everything out, but I'm loving it so far. I can't wait for my sister to come visit me so she can teach me how to use it the right way. It's been a fun new addition to my collection of fancy electronics. I finally feel like I'm a part of this century. A little slow in getting here, but I made it. Now to move on to my eclectic house where none of the furnishings match.

Work Update

Just a quick note to update you all on the work situation. I am happy to inform you that I am not the new assistant supervisor. Phew! They already made their decision and I immediately felt a wave of relief. I am very happy how the results turned out and am happy to report that I am being transferred back to the other branch I used to work at. I am SO happy beyond words that I am going back. It'll feel like I am going home. I need the boring job that I love and can do in my sleep. I need to figure out the rest of my life right now and to do that I need less stress at work. I am happy to go back to work with mature adults and not teenage boys. I have enjoyed my time at the main branch and have learned a lot of very valuable things! Isn't it amazing how things always work out for the best? Yay for peace of mind!

I'm In Love

I know we got married 5 years ago and our anniversary was over a month ago, but I just thought I would post this fun scrapbook slide show I made. Even through our ups and downs and all arounds, I am still madly in love with my husband.

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

I Shouldn't Be Driving...

It's not that I am a bad driver, at least I don't think so. I just can't seem to tell where I am and where I need to go to get where I need to get. I had to drive out to see Dave tonight and take him some dinner due to an unexpected long day. On my way out there I took a wrong turn had to turn around and go back the other way. And then on the way back I missed my exit and the next exit wasn't for 5 miles. And then I got stuck behind a bunch of slow people only going 55mph in a 75mph. So my 30 min drive took me an hour and I wasted a bunch of gas not to mention my first mistake cost me a $.75 toll. Ugh! I have NO direction sense. I never know which way is N, S, E, W. Good thing we have the mountains in Denver. I'd be totally lost otherwise.

Cute Song

Have you seen the Apostle Song video? It's pretty amazing! I thought since conference was coming up I'd share it with you. I am sure a lot of people have already seen it, but just in case you haven't check it out here.

$$$

I love, love, love my job (most days). For the past couple months I have been filling in where needed in a couple different departments. I feel like I am really starting to become a lot more useful. I love that feeling! I love the challenge of learning new things while still having my same old boring job. I didn't originally want to transfer to my current location, but I figure if I have to work there I may as well enjoy it and I may as well learn something while I still have the opportunity.

This is where the dilemma comes in. There is always a dilemma isn't there? There is an assistant supervisor position available right now. I keep telling myself I don't want the job. I like being the "fill-in" girl. I like knowing how to do the job and being able to do it well, but not have the responsibility to do it everyday. But on the other hand I really enjoy the job. I can go back and forth in my mind several times per day. Most people say to put my name in for the position. If I don't get it then it's no big deal because I can still be "fill-in" girl. But if I do get it then I would easily transition into the job because I have already been trained and taken all the classes. Oh..and I would get a raise.

My side of the story goes a little something like this. Not many months ago I was promoted to be assistant supervisor and I joyfully accepted my new job. But then I was always stressed that I wasn't doing everything perfectly and I stressed myself into sickness. I was rushed to the ER 2 times in a matter of 3 months for serious health problems. I have nightmares of that happening again. I don't want to put myself in that situation again. I first and foremost need to be able to care for my family. And if I am sick all the time I can't do that. So, it's not that I can't do the job, because I can..and I know I like it, but I fear I will stress myself out (because that is what I do best) and not be able to do the job. Besides, I don't think I could take the rejection. Isn't that always in the back of the mind or is it just me?

I don't have an unlimited amount of time to make my decision. I really need to decide and decide now. Maybe I'll use General Conference as a time to reflect and be closer to the spirit to help me make my decision. The more I think about it and pray about it and say I'm not going to do it the more I don't feel easy inside. I have been going back and forth for 3 weeks now. That's a long time to make a simple decision. ACK! I just don't want to set myself up for disaster.

Out on a Limb

I am going to take a risk in announcing this, but it's official. I am baby hungry. Very baby hungry. What do I do?? Christian is now 13 months and I already want another one. Isn't it too soon? We always thought we'd wait until he was 18 months before even thinking about it, but I think about it, dream about it, talk to other new moms about it. Is this normal? Am I nuts? I don't know what to do. Should we "try" or wait? How soon is too soon? How long is too long? How will I know when it's the right time to have another? It's a miracle I function throughout the day. It's on my mind all the time. It's official! I am very, very baby hungry. Help! We can't have another baby until we can afford for me to stay home. Or at least work part time. I can't afford 2 kids in daycare...we can barely afford the one. I have to come up with a distraction. I need to keep myself busy. I know! (This is where the light bulb goes on.) I will do everything in my power to prepare ourselves to have another baby. Then I will always feel like I am working towards my goal. And we will soon be able to have another baby. It's officail! I'm nuts!

I Got Nothing

Well, it's been a little while since I posted last, but I don't have anything to blog about. Where does everyone come up with all their fun posts? There isn't much going on this side of the computer and I don't even have a profound thought to share. You'd think I'd have something. But I've got nothing. What do I think about all day? I do have to admit it's a nice change of pace.

Picking Up the Pieces

I kinda fell off the face of the planet for a couple weeks. My computer was being serviced and it took forever! But anyway, I just thought I'd give a little update on everything that has been going on. I've been trying to be positive in all that I do, but that takes a lot of work and I'm so tired of being "happy" all the time. I'm not miserable or anything like that I'm just not overly happy like people usually think I am. I've been going about my usual day to day activities, but everything is just so blah lately. I've been trying to go out and do things and just relax and have fun and enjoy my little boy to keep my mind off of reality. But eventually I have to deal with reality...so here I am picking up the pieces. I can't leave a mess forever, eventually I need to clean it up. So, some day I'll figure out how to control my anger (which has not been happening lately) and be the loving, caring, supportive wife that I know I really am. I have felt like a really bad wife lately. I haven't been loving, caring or supportive this last month. Time to come back to reality...live life to it's fullest and make the best lemonade possible out of the rotten lemons I've been delivered. It could be a lot worse...so in that way..I'm lucky! I know I'm being watched out for and I know that if I try my best....and actually try my best...I'll be A-Ok.

So, anyway, we're still alive here in Denver..and relatively happy in not-so-happy times. What more can we really ask for. We really have a lot and I shouldn't complain.

Falling Apart

We all have our ups and downs in life. So why am I always SO surprised when things don't always go the way I want them to? Why am I still trying to maintain that perfect control over the family and all we choose to do? Why don't I just roll with the punches with a graceful ease? I guess because I am human.

Life always throws things at you just so you don't get too comfortable. It seems lately that I've spent most of my time focusing on the bad and not enough on the good. Just the other day I was asking myself why the bad stuff always happens to me. What on earth can I do for a little break. Within seconds my thoughts turned to the day I found out I was finally going to have a baby. The day I got to see the heartbeat on the ultrasound. The day I found out I was having a boy. The day my little boy was born after trying for 3 years to get him here. Then I thought about the day I was sealed to my husband for time and all eternity in the Denver temple. And I thought about my very first time in the temple. And I thought all the way back to my baptism and why I was SO very excited to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. My life is not bad. Sure I have encountered a few speed bumps and road blocks. I've even taken a few detours. But somehow, I always get back to where I need to be and really...life is good!

Right now our little family is struggling..but pulling together. We'll make it through just fine. Sure we have our moments, but who doesn't? We'll work hard and with a little help (okay, maybe a lot) we will make it through stronger than we were before. After all...this journey was never intended to be easy.

So, as I sat in my room sulking wondering what was wrong with me and why does everything have to happen at once, I realized that it wasn't all bad. And really...it could be a lot worse. And so I sang myself to sleep with a favorite hymn "Count Your Blessings". Sometimes instead of counting sheep to go to sleep I count my blessings. It usually leads me into a nice deep sleep and pleasant dreams. Life isn't perfect, but it's not so bad either.

Here's to optimism! And the happiness it brings.

Staples

Today was Dave's 2nd day on the job as a Store Manager. They are setting up a brand new store with all the shelving and auto parts. This morning Dave had a shelving upright fall on his head. It left a 2 1/2" cut that sent him to the ER for a few hours. He ended up getting 6 staples holding his head together. Thankfully they didn't have to shave any of his hair (he's trying to hang onto all of it that he can).




So, in a week or so he gets to have the staples removed. Sounds painful to me.

Work, Work, Work, Work, Work

Ever soaked in so much information in one day that it made your brain hurt? I sure hope I can remember everything I have learned today. I almost feel like I am in school again (minus the homework *phew*). There is SO much paperwork to be done on top of the other things I do. I love the challenge. Who knew banking could be so exciting? Okay, it's not really that exciting, but I sure do enjoy my job. I'm getting used to my new branch and I really think keeping myself busy is the key to happiness (and faster days). I enjoy learning a variety of new things about bank operations and I am glad they can count on me to learn new tasks quickly so I can help out in more areas. I just want to keep the customer contact. My job wouldn't be fun with out all the people I get to see on a daily basis. Anyway, I just think it is interesting that I didn't want to transfer, but it has turned out okay. I am glad they believe in my abilities even though I was searching for my boring job back. I guess when doors are opened for you you should take the opportunity to walk through them. Who knows when/if they will be opened for you again.

From A to Z

A- Attached or Single? Attached and married!
B- Best Friend? Dave
C- Cake or Pie? Cake I suppose
D- Day of choice? Wednesday
E- Essential item? gum..gotta keep my mouth moving
F- Favorite color? Green
G- Gummy bears or worms? Sour gummy worms
H- Hometown? Parker, CO
I- Favorite Indulgence? being alone
J- January or July? July, lots of barbeques and fireworks
K- Kids? We have one boy right now and I think we want 2 or 3 more
L- Life isn't complete without? My family
M- Marriage date? Aug 30, 2003
N- Number of brothers and sisters? I have 2 bros and 2 sis and Dave has 3 bros and 9 sis
O- Oranges or Apples? Oranges
P- Phobia and fears? I'm scared of the dark and deep water
Q- Quote? "Love is the difficult realization that something other than oneself is real." Iris Murdoch
R- Reasons to smile? I have a beautiful family and I am still alive and able to enjoy them
S- Season of choice? Autumn
T- Tag 3 people: Maren, Shara, and Angela
U- Unknown fact about me: Dream a but is life, merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily stream the down gently, boat your row, row, row. I like to sing songs backwards.
V- Vegetable? carrots
W- Worst Habit? being late for everything
X - Ray or Ultrasound? Both, Xray my teeth and ultrasound with my pregnancy
Y- Your favorite food? spaghetti and meatballs
Z- Zodiac sign? Gemini

I'm A Survivor

We made it to Nauvoo and had a fabulous time at the reunion. As stressed as I was about packing, it only took a few hours to get it all done (with Dave's help). Christian did marvelous on the road trip and was a happy boy the whole week. I, however, was very sick the first half of the vacation and missed a lot of great opportunities to see some sights. I was able to see Liberty Jail and Independence, MO, but I missed the trip to Carthage. I was really bummed about that. We didn't get to see much in Nauvoo between me being sick and Christian's short attention span. But we did see a couple things we missed last time we were there. It was nice to get away for a whole week as a family. The last time we had a vacation that long was our honeymoon (which was also a roadtrip to Nauvoo). So, hopefully we will be able to go back once we have older kids. Oh, and if you ever think about camping in Nauvoo--don't. It's hot, humid, buggy and miserable. I am glad we had the opportunity to get away, but I am glad to be home.

Vacation

On Friday we are going to make a journey with Dave's family to Nauvoo for the first Putnam family reunion. We are very excited to spend time with some of our favorite people, but I am very stressed about being away from home for a whole week! There is so much to plan that I am feeling a little overwhelmed and not wanting to do anything. This is our first post baby vacation (other than a short visit to Salt Lake) so I am having a little trouble figuring out how to take enough without taking too much. Space is limited in our little Hyundai Elantra. Christian does require a lot of big things such as a stroller, pack n play, diapers and wipes, food and bottles, clothing, toys, blankets, and the list goes on. It should be interesting not having his high chair for a week. And it'll be our first time camping with the little tyke. And what are we doing with the animals while we are gone? Somehow this all snuck up on us. It is so easy to get caught up in day to day life and time gets away from you easily. On the bright side I do tend to do my best work under pressure.

Congratulations!

Yesterday was a great day! I had been waiting for June 14, 2008 for a long time. OK...not really for June 14, but for Miranda to get married. What a HUGE blessing it was for me to be able to be in the sealing room to see two of my favorite people marry each other. I think the day went well and I truly believe that Miranda and Kris will be happy with each other for eternity.

Miranda and I have been friends for a long time. I have never felt closer to anyone outside my family (other than Dave of course) than I do with Miranda. We have been through the ups, downs and all arounds with each other. I am so happy that I was able to be a part of one of the happiest days of her life.


Kris and I had a rocky start...ok...it was really just me. But once I got to know him I realized I was being dumb and forgave him. I am so glad that we can be friends! (Sorry Kris, but you're stuck with me forever too!) :o)

Congratulations you two! I love you both and couldn't be more pleased with your choice of eternal companion! Thank you for letting me be a part of your special day!!

Complicated

I tried to make things easier on myself by transferring closer to home. It was going to be less stress; I already knew where everything was, and the people I would work with. Then...3 weeks later I find out they are transferring me to another bank. True, I am doing the same job, it is equal distance and I do know a lot of the people. Except now I have to learn where everything is and how everyone works, etc. plus get to know a whole new (really only 1/2 new) customer base. Thankfully I catch on quickly, but I guess I just wasn't expecting it at all. It kinda threw me off my game. And then Audit shows up a day later and I get horribly sick a day after that...it has been a rocky start. This transfer is not a bad thing...it's a pretty lateral transfer. I was pretty comfy at my bank, but I think it will be good at this new branch. I have a lot more opportunity to grow and move up within the bank at this branch. I look forward to learning a lot of new things and getting to be more familiar with how different things work. So much for making my life more simple. I'm sure in a couple months I'll be in good shape and have a good reputation with the customers.

Digital Scrapbooking

I have recently come across the idea of digital scrapbooking (Thanks Angela!). I thought it might be fun and so I gave it a whirl. Now, keep in mind I have never used photoshop before and it is WAY too fancy for my computer skills. So, I read a little online and after trial and error I came up with a little something. It is extremely time consuming, at least for right now. I had to do a lot of googling to find cute things to download for free because I am too cheap to buy anything. And then I had to figure out how to layer things, crop, change size, etc. I have decided that as I get better with photoshop I will start to make cuter pages. So, I am going to make one page for each month of Christian's life for his first year and then we'll see what happens after that. I think I might have found a useful (kinda) hobby. What a great way to do geneology! Anyway, hopefully I'll be able to post some of my progress in the future and if any of you are photoshop savvy..send some tips my way. I can use all the help I can get.

Tag..I'm It!

Rules:
A. Post the rules
B. Answer all the questions about yourself
C. After you are done posting, tag 5 people

1. What were you doing 10 years ago?
1998- I was living in Ely, NV just finishing my sophomore year at White Pine High School. I got perfect attendance that year. I also got my Driver's License.

2. 5 things on your to do list today:
1. Make mints
2. Make chocolates
3. Make sugar cookies
4. Clean the house
5. Laundry

3. 5 snacks you enjoy:
1. ice cream
2. cookies
3. chips
4. Cheez-Its
5. gummy candy

4. What would you do if you suddenly became a millionaire?
Pay off all debt, travel, and invest 1/2 of my income

5. 3 bad habits:
1. being grumpy
2. not folding laundry
3. being lazy

6. 5 places I've lived:
1. Canvas, WV
2. Gillette, WY
3. Ely, NV
4. Parker, CO
5. Rexburg, ID
(but there's more...Katy, TX, Springfield, IL..and technically OH..but I was really little.)

7. 5 jobs I've had:
1. Steptoe Valley Inn Bed and Breakfast as a Maid/cook/waitress/baker/dishwasher/gardener/guest greeter and more
2. BYU-I cafeteria
3. FirstBank
4. Babysitting
5. Mommy!

8. 5 things people don't know about me:
1. I like Latin Dance
2. I want to live in a foreign country
3. Deep water terrifies me
4. I love to bake and want to learn how to decorate cakes
5. I've taught primary for 4 out of the past 5 years


I tag Maren and Angela. I know it's only 2, but only 3 people read my blog..as far as I know.

I Quit!

Okay...so I didn't quit my job, but I'm transferring back to being a senior teller at Jordan. This is a job I love and will never be bored of again. I know that I could be a supervisor at some point..and maybe in another 5 years I'll try it again, but I am loving the idea of less stress and working with people I actually like. My health is in poor condition right now and the more stress I have the worse it gets. So, in effort to reduce stress and time on the road (which is stressful sometimes) I have decided to go back. I hope it works out. I know it will...everyone seems excited for me to come back. I hate admitting that my health has gotten the better of me and I tried to play it off as other things, but it really comes down to stress levels. It is true I don't love my current job and I probably never will. New Accounts is not my cup of tea. I'm glad to know it now and I won't ever have to worry about it again. I am happy to know that I can help out when needed, but I won't have to do it on a daily basis. Yipee!! All the agony and stress of wondering if I'm making the right decision is behind me. I feel good about this. Even though I would like to quit...I can't...so this is the next best thing....Getting paid to do something I love to do.

Welcome To My Head....If You Dare.

Well, I've come to another fork in the road. I hate them..I'm not a fan of forks. Okay, so I like forks, just not when they are in the road. So, I've come to a point at work where I don't like my job. The focus is all on one tiny part of the job...the part that I have a personal conflict with. The part that I avoided for 5+ years. The part that I've tried to overcome, but failed. Alright, maybe I'm being a little hard on myself, but I really don't like my job. I'm SO over it I can't stand it anymore. I'm not a salesman. I have NO problem offering products to customers. I have NO problem offering every benefit I can think of and letting the customer decided whether or not he/she wants it. I have NO problem if they say no. Well..I'm the only one that seems to feel that way. So...I want my old job back!!!! But then I don't want to go back to my old branch if I'm not going to stay. I don't want to get bored again. I don't want to have NO responsibility, I just want to focus on one aspect of my job. I just want to be a Teller supervisor. I have noticed that job doesn't really exist anymore and I need to decide what else I would like to do. New Accounts is NOT for me. Would it be horrible to ask for my old job back?? It's available...is that a sign? Ack!! I would lose .60 an hour but I would have 1hr less time of daycare a day and 30 less miles of driving a day. Plus I would be able to go home for lunch again and I would work with people I like. I can think of a MILLION reasons why I want to go back, but is it the right decision? Am I quitting too soon? Should I give up after just a few months? Would it be dumb of me to stay in a job that makes me miserable just for a little more money? YES! I think it would. I don't think the money is worth the stress and problems. Should I try a new job..a different opportunity? Will I like it? Hate it? Get bored really soon? I REALLY love being a teller...I think this job has just reassured me that I really LOVE being a teller. I don't think I will ever get bored again. Plus, if I'm a teller...I'll get my $100 incentive a month. So, it will even out. Ack!! What does a girl do in this situation? I just want to make the right choice, even if it isn't the easy one.

Here Goes Nothin'

So, I had a follow up appointment today. It was short, sweet and to the point. Basically I'm doing better, but I just have to be patient and let things run their course. Did I ever tell you that patience is not a strength of mine? So, my calcium and potassium and everything has improved a lot, but I am still low. Dr. Falko explained to me today that on my first appointment with him I was very, very close to having severly low calcium. That would explain all the phone calls to see if I was ok. But now, even though I am still low, I am doing fine. Unfortunately, I have some sort of stomach bug and I don't feel fantastic at all. Also, my blood pressure was still quite high (okay...really high!) so I am on new meds for that too. So, now I am taking 5 pills in the morning and 4 pills at night. I'm not good at this, but I am trying because I want to feel good and lose some weight. I can't wait to have some energy back again. I'll need all I can get...Christian is a fast little booger.

Also, today we decided that it was WAY past time to actually clean the house a little. By no means does this mean that very much got cleaned, but probably half. And it wasn't a deep clean...just clean enough that you don't want to kill yourself when you walk in the door. I love to throw things away!! I'm a purger (but not bulimic). It feels good to fill a garbage bag and chuck it in the dumpster. So, we can actually eat at our table and sit on the couch and play on the floor without having to move anything. What a grand feeling. It's a little embarrassing to admit just how dirty our little place was. And to be honest, it wasn't that long ago that we cleaned last time...we just had stuff everywhere! Now, we just need to tackle the dreaded bathroom...maybe on Saturday.

It's been a long time

Wow! I neglected this blog for quite some time. I wonder if everyone has given up on me yet. So, a lot has happened since my last post. I have had a lot of severe health problems. On Valentine's Day (Feb 14 in case you forgot) I went to work for a meeting even though I wasn't feeling well. I decided that I could push through and be fine. My hands and feet were really numb and I was trying with all my might to pretend I was fine. Well, it didn't last long. I clamped up fast and they had to call 911 because nobody could get to me fast enough. So, I took a little journey via ambulance to Skyridge (which I don't like) and spent a good portion of my Valentine's Day trying to explain to the doctor that I wasn't there for menstrual cramps. The paramedics told them I was cramping...so of course that is what they would assume. I would have in their situation. So, once I could talk well enough and once they let Dave in we got them all straightened out; however, nobody has heard of pseudohypoparathyroidism...so nobody knew what to do to treat it. So, I had to tell them that I needed calcium and magnesium and depending on my levels some potassium via IV. They confirmed that was indeed the treatment I needed and proceeded to give me just that. They let me go home several hours later once I was able to sign discharge papers and walk. I spent the next few days in extreme amounts of pain that I wasn't going to tell anyone about (unless they touched me). I was going to try to work the next day, but I was so sick it wasn't going to happen. So, we did the only logical thing to do and packed up our little family, hopped in the car and drove to Utah.

Once in UT we were able to see my family, except Tom. Mom, Dad, and Maren just returned home from a trip to Europe. It was fun to see everyone again. And it was fun for everyone to meet Christian. It was a good trip and it really helped me to keep moving and get better a lot faster than sitting at home or laying in bed all day. It was the perfect weekend get away.

Well, when we returned from UT it was time to realize that my health problems were not resolved and I started to look for another doctor. I stumbled across a group of doctors at the University of Colorado Hospital and decided to call the office. I took the first Wednesday appointment I could with Dr. Falko. It was such a relief to see him and he knew what my condition was and how to treat it. What a relief that he has actually treated multiple people with this same condition. He put me on some different meds which are also stronger and I am already feeling better after just one week.

I did have some blood work done yesterday and my levels are still severely low, but they are on the rise. What a relief. He told me that once this is under control I will have an annual visit and that's it. I am also able to have as many children as I want. Also, once my calcium is under control my blood pressure will most likely drop down to normal levels again. WooHoo!

All in all it's been a crazy time this last month. I have been very sick, but I think I'll be fine with this new treatment. I've even felt well enough to work some overtime shifts. Nothing like some extra cash flow. I need to be able to pay all the extra daycare and medical expenses.

The Ants Go Marching Two by Two Hoorah!

Two names you go by:
1. Jeanne
2. Mommy

Two things you are wearing right now:
1. Flannel jammie pants
2. Long sleeved tshirt

Two of your favorite things to do:
1. Playing with Christian
2. Snooping on other people's blogs

Two things you want very badly at the moment:
1. Dinner
2. A raise

Two Pets that you have or have had:
1. Jake
2. Merlin

Two things you did last night:
1. Watched October Road
2. Ate a bucket full of ice cream

Two things you ate today:
1. Chicken
2. Pretzels

Two people you last talked to:
1. Dave
2. Miranda

Two things you're doing tomorrow:
1. Cleaning my house
2. Playing with Christian

Two longest trips taken:
1. WV to WY
2. Honeymoon

Two favorite holidays:
1. I have 10 favorite holidays (Bank Holidays)
2. Christmas

Two favorite beverages:
1. Root Beer
2. Ice Water

I'm such a Snoop!

I’ve been inspired! I have been very nosy reading my cousins’s blogs and they do such a great job. I don’t post often enough and not much content. I realized that I LOVE seeing pictures of their children even when it seems like there are several that all look alike. I love watching little videos of their kids doing things like sticking their tongue out or blowing raspberries. I am truly interested in what they have to say and what is going on in their lives. Why wouldn’t people be interested in what I have to say and what is going on in my life? I don’t get to see a lot of people very often and reading a blog on occasion is sometimes the only way we can keep in touch. And I think it’s a great way to keep in touch and keep a record of family events and pictures. Our new blog is still under construction, but soon I will have it all figured out and I will be able to post things with ease. Or at least I hope! I hope to have something to write on a weekly basis if not more often. I don’t know how often anyone reads this, but it’s more for me anyway.

Check out our new blog under construction at http://www.putnamupdates.com/
And if anyone knows how to use WordPress let me know....I'm not smart with computers, but I'm slowly catching on. We are still in the VERY early construction process on the new site...but we'll let you know when we transfer to the new blog. Until then keep looking for updates on blogger.

What a Life

So, I've decided that I am way too busy. Between working full time, being a mom full time and teaching Primary and attending all family functions and trying to maintain a household (even though that doesn't seem to be working very well) I am running out of fun time. I look forward to the rare opportunities I get to chat on the phone or go to breakfast with a friend. I'd even take a lonesome trip to the grocery store and be satisfied. I just wish I had more time to get everything done and be able to enjoy some time with my family and friends. But I suppose that is the life I signed up for when we decided to start our little family.

I really do enjoy being a mom. I can't believe I'm saying that. For a long time I often wondered if I'd really like it. I am glad I do like it though. I don't even mind if he throws up on me or wipes boogers on my shirt. Well...I take that back. I do mind, it just doesn't gross me out as much. I'm really enjoying watching him grow and become more active and alert. I love to take him places and just watch him interact with everyone around him (I still need to teach him to not talk to strangers). We have really gotten into a good routine and I really enjoy that. I like to think I am a spontaneous type person, but I really need that structure.

So, as much as I miss my "old life" I wouldn't trade it in for the world. I was the same way when I first got married. I really missed my single life. I missed having things my way and not having to compromise so much. But in all reality, I loved being married and would never want to be single again. And now I barely remember my single life. It would be so strange. I hope in a couple years I won't even remember what life was like without children. Not that I want Christian to grow too fast, but I am excited to see how he grows up and how he interacts with his siblings (that is assuming we have more kids). I really think I'll like mommyhood!

I don't want to be the bad guy

Who says just because you are a supervisor means you have to be the bad guy all the time? Why couldn't I go to one of those branches that doesn't have issues?? Not only have we had an employee come back from lunch almost 2 hours late (it's a darn good thing he came back!), we also have an employee who is being quite cold to the "boss" types. This individual claims there are too many chiefs and not enough indians. I know it's hard to be told that things are changing. I had a hard time with change in my early years, but change is good...change brings better, more confident results. Embrace the change! Unfortunately, this is not a shared opinion. I feel pretty good that this individual will come back from a long weekend feeling better, or at least I hope. Just minor speed bumps.

And then, I got to interview a couple people for an open position...who said I had experience interviewing??? Who doesn't go to that class until Mar 27??? Boy, I love being thrown into new things. (Embrace change!) Oh, and those new accounts I don't know how to open...I've opened several now. Not so bad, actually. So, it's amazing how much you really do know when you are thrown into the deep end with no life jacket. It's amazing how you learn things so much faster when you have to figure it out on your own. And then there are all the things I have to learn to pass my designated test. Ugh...You wouldn't believe how fast 10 hours flies by! I just hope I don't screw up anything too major. Hopefully I only make fixable mistakes. I don't want to be the one messing up the audit score next year. That's a whole different topic.

Anyway, I really do like my new job, but it's a lot to take in all at once. They really want to get me up to speed sooner than later...and we all have our suspicions on why that might be. I think big changes might be coming our way next year. UGH!! Remember, I am the one that wanted the promotion...and yet, sometimes I just want to give it back.